Work Communities
RWTH Work Communities are consortia of researchers from different faculties that develop new interdisciplinary research fields. Currently, there are three work communities at RWTH: The CCES is concerned with the simulation and optimization of scientific-technological systems, the E.ON ERC is equipped to look far beyond the edge of subject specific research, while the Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering conducts R&D to develop treatments and therapies for patients.
Current Work Communities at RWTH
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Center for Computational Engineering Science (CCES)
At the CCES researchers from various natural science and engineering disciplines closely work together on the further development of mathematical modelling methods, and the simulation and optimization of technical and scientific systems. -
E.ON Energy Research Center
E.ON ERC is a beacon in the field of energy technology when it comes to research and interdisciplinary collaboration with the industry and institutions both inside and outside of the university. Through its organizational structure with seven professors from three RWTH Faculties, the Center is equipped to look far beyond the edge of subject specific research and can dedicate itself particularly to technical research questions in larger systems. The ERC conducts research on regenerative systems that clearly exceeds the capacities of formerly developed power generation concepts (wind energy, photovoltaic). Socioeconomic and political aspects are also integrated into all the projects. -
Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering
The Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering work community aims to promote interdisciplinary basic research, application-oriented research and development of new biomedical technologies to contribute to the best possible medical therapy and rehabilitation options for patients.
Work Communities at RWTH Aachen – A Definition
A work community, or “Arbeitsgemeinschaft (AG)” is an interdisciplinary collaboration of multiple faculties established to develop new interdisciplinary research fields with strategic meaning for RWTH Aachen University. Sometimes, in exceptional circumstances, work communities will also pick up on research topics of particular relevance for modern society and work on them for an extended period of time.
Work communities are approved by the Rector's Office, which may provide support in the initial phase of the project, as so-called start-up funding.
Through a cooperation agreement, faculties and departments commit to hiring or designating present professors, who are equipped or will be equipped to address the research topic of the work community.
An advisory board supports the AG and advises the Rector’s Office. In scientific matters, it also possesses a consulting function and can express recommendations for structural changes.